Stars and Style at the Johnnie Walker Vault Launch Dinner in New York

Celebrities, fashion, and whisky came together at an exclusive dinner in New York to celebrate the collaboration between Johnnie Walker and Balmain.

This past Saturday, New York’s iconic McKittrick Hotel set the stage for an exclusive evening marking the collaboration between Johnnie Walker Vault and designer Olivier Rousteing, Creative Director of Balmain. On the eve of the Met Gala, stars including Priyanka Jonas, Hunter Schafer, and Lupita Nyong’o gathered for the unveiling of four “couture” whisky bottles inspired by the seasons.

Guests were welcomed through a sensory corridor bathed in blue light and accompanied by an audio track narrated by Rousteing and master blender Emma Walker. Dinner, curated by chef Yann Nury, was paired with whisky and set to a backdrop of 1980s pop music personally selected by Rousteing.

Priyanka Jonas, dressed by the designer for the Met Gala, praised his talent: “He’s one of the most outstanding creators of the moment.” The evening concluded with the reveal of a hidden Johnnie Walker Blue bar, kicking off a lively post-dinner party.

“We’re celebrating more than whisky — we’re celebrating creativity, connection, and joy,” said Rousteing, proudly wearing a small golden flask as a symbol of the collaboration. A night of luxury, fashion, and Scottish spirit.

Would you like a UK-specific tweak to spelling and phrasing as well (e.g. “flavour” vs “flavor”)?